Blue Rodeo is heading to Afghanistan to entertain the Canadian troops -- and they're bringing some muscle with them.

One of Canada's most popular bands passed through Ottawa Thursday night on their latest tour. After the show, band members said they're looking forward to travelling to Afghanistan next month with a posse of former NHLers, including tough guys Bob Probert and Chris Nilan.

Prior to shows in Montreal, Blue Rodeo's Greg Keelor told reporters: "We'll do a show and play a ball hockey game (against Canadian soldiers). Those guys better watch out. I know they've survived the Taliban, but they are going to lose a few teeth when we arrive."

Keelor is a former goaltender, who once had a tryout with the junior Toronto Marlies. He said after Thursday's show here at Scotiabank Place -- in which he offered up a stark rendition of Dark Angel that was a highlight of the gig -- that he hasn't played hockey since then.

BITE PUTS BASS ON ICE

Senators rookie Cody Bass had surgery to deal for a skate bite, in which the laces cut into the skin on the foot. Senators coach John Paddock said Bass will be lost to the club for up to six weeks.